BRAMI, the innovative brand bringing the Mediterranean lupini bean to the snack aisle, announced that it has closed on a $1.5MM Series Seed round of funding led by Lerer Hippeau Ventures, AccelFoods and Enlightened Capital.

New York-based BRAMI, offering a high-protein, low-calorie pulse-based alternative to traditional snacks, will use the investment to drive retail expansion, execute online and in-store marketing, and expand manufacturing capabilities.

"My thesis has always been that the best companies are those that fill a daily need. There are a ton of 'better-for-you' snacks out there, but BRAMI is truly unique -- and frankly, a no-bullshit, delicious, super healthy snack. Combine that with a massive market, booming demand for clean plant-protein, and a founder I've known since I was three and believe in emphatically, needless to say, I'm super excited to continue to partner with this company," said Ben Lerer, Managing Partner of Lerer Hippeau Ventures.

"With this round of investment, we will bring the incredible power of lupini beans to consumers looking for a great tasting, highly nutritious, and sustainable snack," says BRAMI founder Aaron Gatti. "We are introducing a product that is truly 'great-for-you' and will kick-start smarter snacking."

The investment exemplifies the growing trend toward alternative and plant-based protein sources that are resource efficient. The macronutrient packed "superbean" has the highest protein density per calorie of any other crop on the planet and are incredibly farmer-friendly. They are naturally pest resistant, low maintenance, non-GMO, and replenish nitrogen and phosphate into the soil.